Frequently Asked Questions about HMOs
Posted on 7th March 2023 at 17:07
In this article we answer the most asked questions about HMOs, what they are, do they need a license and more....
1) What is an HMO?
An HMO is a House in Multiple Occupation and is a property that is rented out to three or more people who are not from one household and who share facilities such as a kitchen and/or bathrooms.
2) Do all HMOs require a license?
No, not all HMOs require a license. The requirement for an HMO license depends on the size of the property, the number of tenants, and the local council's licensing scheme.
3) Who is responsible for obtaining an HMO license?
The landlord of the HMO is responsible for obtaining the HMO license.
4) What are the requirements for an HMO license?
The requirements for an HMO license may vary depending on the local council's licensing scheme, but typically the property must meet certain safety and amenity standards, have suitable fire safety measures in place, and have adequate facilities for the number of tenants.
5) What are the responsibilities of an HMO landlord?
The responsibilities of an HMO landlord include ensuring the property is safe and suitable for occupation, complying with all relevant health and safety legislation, maintaining the property to a reasonable standard, and providing tenants with a copy of the HMO license, if the property requires one.
6) Can HMO landlords charge more rent?
HMO landlords may be able to charge more rent than landlords of single-family homes because they can rent out individual rooms to multiple tenants.
7) Can HMO tenants be evicted more easily?
No, HMO tenants have the same rights as tenants in other rental properties and cannot be evicted more easily. The landlord must follow the proper legal procedures for evicting tenants.
8) Can any property be an HMO?
It depends on the layout of the property, but yes in theory even a flat could be an HMO. There are minimum room sizes and the layout has to work, with enough facilities for all tenants. If you have a property in mind, don’t hesitate to get in touch for some advice on what does and doesn't work. We have converted over 20 properties into HMOs so have LOTS of experience.
9) Who pays the bills in an HMO?
For professional tenants renting by the room, bills such as electricity, gas, water and council tax are usually included in the rent. Most landlords also provide broadband and a regular cleaner for the communal areas. Student HMOs are different and usually the bills are the responsibility of the tenants as they are usually on one joint AST.
10) Who lives in an HMO?
HMOs attract lots of tenant types from students to working professionals. At The House Share Company we specialise in managing properties suitable for working professionals, who usually range in age from 25 to 60 and come from all fields of employment, baristas, nurses, care workers, lorry drivers and more!
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